Your wedding is one of the biggest days of your life! Every detail works together to create the wedding of your dreams. You put so much time and effort into creating an environment that reflects your personality as a couple, celebrates the beginning of your journey as husband and wife, and thanks every single person that comes to support you on your special day. Believe it or not, those special moments will fly by! And this is why choosing a wedding photographer is one of the biggest and most important decisions in planning your wedding day.


You want to remember every single moment, treasure the details for the rest of your life, and tell generations to come about the way he looked at you as you walked down the aisle or how your dress fit like a glove and made you feel like a princess. You want to remember the people who helped make it happen. Every moment of joy and every surprise along the way help to tell the story of an unforgettable day. This is why wedding photography and who you choose as your wedding photographer is so important!


Capturing these details will preserve the memories for generations. Wedding photography is an art, and not all wedding photographers are the same.

As you begin your journey of planning your wedding, you want to know how to choose a dream wedding photographer that fits your budget. Keep reading to find out some tips for sorting through the options and choosing the best photographer to capture you and your spouse on one of the most important days of your life.

ring detail shot with soft pink, cream, and white flowers

1. Determine Your Priorities


This is the most important step. As you venture into the world of wedding planning, there will be many decisions to make. Please make the photographer for your wedding day one of the first decisions you make. Check out this post if you need some reasons why! You have to decide what is important to you. It will be different for every couple, and you don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. This is your wedding—make it unique to you.


Start by asking yourself:

  • How much photography coverage do you want?
  • What are the most important events during the day that you want photographed?
  • What style of photos do you like? What style do you think you will still like 10 years from now?
  • Do you want highly posed photos or more of a candid story-telling style?
  • Do you want a longer portrait time, or would you rather get back to your guests and the events of the day?
  • What personality would make you feel super comfortable in front of the camera?
  • Do you want an engagement session?

How will you use your photos? Are prints and albums important to you? (check out this post on the importance of printing your photos Capture, Backup, Print | Ensuring the Longevity of Your Most Precious Memories - Grateful Moments Photography)

  • How long are you willing to wait for your photos?


As a wedding photographer, I love getting to know my couples and working with the unique aspects of their day to build a custom package. I’ve also seen couples prioritize their budgets by doing things like hosting backyard weddings (check out my favorite backyard wedding to date! Jesse + Chelsea | A Private Backyard Wedding in Southern Oregon - Grateful Moments Photography), choosing a smaller guest list, crafting a creative timeline, and enlisting the help of family or friends. These options can help you stay within your budget while ensuring you still get the photography experience you want.


groom dips bride by a vineyard in the Rogue Valley

2. Set a Realistic Budget


Photography is an art. The photos you receive from your wedding day cannot be redone. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you absolutely want to pick the right person to capture it.


Pricing is often influenced by your photographer’s experience, the hours of coverage you need, the location of your wedding, and the market in your area. Remember that there’s more to your final gallery than just the wedding day itself. A significant amount of time is spent creating an amazing client experience, honing skills, and editing and preparing your images.


Be upfront about your budget as you seek out the right photographer. This will help you find someone who meets your needs without unnecessary back-and-forth.


floral wedding arch with soft pinks, blues, and yellows

3. Research Local Photographers


Finding a local photographer can save you travel fees and ensure they’re familiar with your area. Try searching terms like “Affordable Wedding Photographers Near Me” or “Southern Oregon Wedding Photographer.”


When researching, check out reviews, social media pages, and websites. Pay attention to the consistency of their style and the type of weddings they’ve shot in the past. Once you’ve narrowed your list, reach out to those whose work and pricing align with your vision.


groom kisses bride on the cheek under a pink flowering tree

4. Understand What’s Included in the Packages


Photographers organize their packages differently. Some include options like second shooters, engagement sessions, hours of coverage, print credits, or albums. Decide which features are most important to you and compare packages accordingly.


Many photographers (me included!) are open to customizing packages if you communicate your needs upfront. Don’t be afraid to ask about add-ons or alternatives to get the most value from your investment.


bride and groom share a moment in the garden

5. Book Early for the Best Rates


The earlier you book your photographer, the better. As photographers gain experience, their rates often increase due to higher demand. By reserving your date well in advance, you not only secure their services but also potentially lock in a lower rate.


Booking early also gives you peace of mind, knowing that your date is set, and your photography is in good hands.


groom leads bride by a vineyard in the Applegate Valley

6. Trust Your Instincts


You’ll spend a significant amount of time with your photographer on one of the most important days of your life. Choose someone who makes you feel comfortable and understands your vision. Look for a photographer who’s as excited about your wedding as you are and who can capture your love story in images you’ll treasure forever.


Your wedding photography is an investment in preserving memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. By determining your priorities, setting a realistic budget, researching local photographers, understanding packages, booking early, and trusting your instincts, you can find a dream wedding photographer who fits your budget.

If you’re planning a wedding, I would love to chat about your dream wedding photography! Let’s work together to make your vision a reality. Contact me today to discuss your special day and how I can help capture every beautiful moment.


Thanks for reading!

-Alicia